Virtues of Christian
elders
Key Verses: 2, 5, 10, 14
Being a
pastor of a congregation is not something to be sought apart from the call of
God. There are requirements that must be met, standards of conduct,
unacceptable behaviors. As a pastor you are put on a pedestal, whether you want
to be or not. Your congregation has expectations of your behavior, expectations
that Paul reinforces here in these verses. Our personal lives must be in order.
Our families can’t be in rebellion. Even outsiders must think highly of you.
I think
we too often elevate leaders too rapidly into positions of authority. And in
our “lone ranger” society, leaders become isolated and vulnerable. Then when
people admit weakness, we throw them under the bus, instead of working
reconciliation and restoration. Part of that restoration would be active
accountability with others. No more isolation.
This list
in verses two through seven should be on every pastor’s desk in the world. This
is the standard. Meet it or move out of pastoral leadership. These are not
impossible standards. Pastors are not perfect, but we are held to a higher
standard.
Other
leaders are also held to a standard. As they are chosen for leadership, their
lives become open to public scrutiny. We don’t want people in leadership with
deep, dark secrets that can be exposed and place the church in a vulnerable
position. Background checks for those working in leadership, especially those
working with children and youth, makes perfect sense and should be done. We
also don’t want people in leadership whose lives are a poor reflection of
Christ.
Paul
writes Timothy to pass along his wisdom to his young protégé. Paul’s words
speak across the centuries to all those who are in leadership, not just those
who are in leadership in the church. As business leaders our lives are open to
scrutiny. As Jesus-followers our lives need to reflect the Lord.